Choosing the right length for your swimwear is crucial for both style and comfort. The perfect swimwear can enhance your appearance and boost your confidence, while the wrong length can have the opposite effect. In this comprehensive men's swimwear length guide, we will explore the various options available and provide recommendations to help you make the best choice for your body type and personal style. Whether you're hitting the beach or lounging by the pool, this guide will ensure you look and feel your best.
The type of men's swimwear you'll choose will ultimately depend on a number of factors such as your personal preferences, your comfort levels, and more importantly the length and width of your thighs. But when it comes to the length of your swim trunks, the rule of thumb is to choose one that ends in the middle of you thigh. For a good and decent fit, the hem of your swim trunks shouldn't go beyond your knees. At the same time, it shouldn't be way shorter or it will make your thigh look disproportioned to the rest of your body.
Understanding Swimwear Lengths
What are the Different Swimwear Lengths?
Swimwear lengths can generally be categorized into three main types:
- Short Length: Typically ending well above the knee, often mid-thigh or higher.
- Mid Length: Ending around mid-thigh, providing a balanced look that is neither too short nor too long.
- Long Length: Extending to the knee or slightly below, often associated with board shorts.
Why Length Matters in Swimwear
The length of your swimwear affects not only your comfort but also your overall appearance. The right length can enhance your physique, provide better mobility, and offer the appropriate amount of coverage for various activities.
Short Length Swimwear
If board shorts are too long, then performance swimwear is too short for you. Wearing speedos and athletic style swimmers is not really a great look for older guys, especially if you're hitting the beach. Apart from the fact that they are short and skimpy, they are not that comfortable, as well. Wearing this to the beach can be quite troublesome, especially if you're going to be walking or moving around a lot.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Provides greater freedom of movement, suitable for active swimming and sports, can make legs appear longer.
- Cons: May be too revealing for some, offers less coverage and protection from the sun.
Ideal For
- Athletic Build: Accentuates muscular legs and provides ease of movement.
- Casual Swimmers: Great for those who prioritize comfort and mobility over coverage.
Mid Length Swimwear
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Offers a balanced look, provides enough coverage without being restrictive, suitable for most body types.
- Cons: Less freedom of movement compared to shorter lengths, but still comfortable for most activities.
Ideal For
- All Body Types: Flattering for most men, providing a good balance of coverage and comfort.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for both swimming and casual beach or poolside lounging.
(PPSST: Bondi Joe’s mens swimwear is designed to be mid-length!)
Long Length Swimwear
Long length swimwear, like board shorts are indeed very popular among surfers and younger guys. A few years ago, you were probably wearing one yourself. But now that you're older, it isn't really a great idea to wear board shorts to the beach. Unless you're a legit surfer, you should probably choose a particular type of swimwear that is more appropriate for your age.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Provides maximum coverage, often includes pockets and additional features.
- Cons: Can restrict movement, may look less stylish, and can be less flattering for shorter men.
Ideal For
- Tall Men: Can balance out longer legs.
- Casual Wear: More suitable for casual beach outings than active swimming.
Choosing the Right Swimwear Length
Consider Your Body Type
If you are tall and have a fit body, you need not worry because you can rock pretty much any mens swimwear length. However, it is entirely a different story if you have skinny arms and legs. If you're tall and skinny, avoid swim trunks that go beyond your knees because it will make you look like you're wearing a pair of capri pants at the beach. It could also bring too much attention to your legs and if you're conscious about your legs, people staring at them is probably the last thing on earth you'd want to happen. Also, ensure that your swim trunks are not too baggy or too loose because it would make your legs look way thinner than they actually are.
Some people with short stature wear very short trunks, thinking that the lack of fabric will give their legs the appearance of being longer. However, it usually has the opposite effect because shorter swimwear has the tendency to make your thighs look thicker. This in turn could make your torso look bulkier. When in doubt, always refer to Tip No 1 above.
- Shorter Men: Avoid long lengths that can make you appear shorter. Opt for mid or short lengths to elongate your legs.
- Taller Men: Long or mid lengths can be flattering, but avoid too short styles that may look disproportionate.
- Athletic Build: Short or mid lengths can showcase your physique.
Consider the Occasion
- Active Swimming or Sports: Shorter lengths provide better mobility.
- Casual Beach or Pool Days: Mid lengths offer a balanced look and comfort.
- Family Gatherings: Mid or long lengths for a modest and versatile appearance.
Recommended Swimwear Styles
Mid-Thigh Swim Trunks
Mid-thigh mens swim trunks are highly recommended for their versatility and flattering fit. They provide the perfect balance of coverage and freedom of movement, making them suitable for various activities and body types.
Avoid Long Boardshorts
While long boardshorts offer ample coverage, they can restrict movement and often lack the style and comfort of shorter options. They may also make shorter men appear even shorter.
Avoid Old Man Style Speedo Swimmers
Speedos, particularly the old man style, can be too revealing and may not provide the desired level of comfort and coverage for most men. Opt for swimwear that offers more coverage while still being stylish.
How to Measure for Swimwear Length
- Measure Your Waist: Use a flexible measuring tape to measure around your natural waistline.
- Determine Desired Length: Decide where you want the swimwear to end (e.g., mid-thigh).
- Measure Inseam: Measure from the crotch to the desired length on your thigh.
- Compare with Size Chart: Use the swimwear brand's size chart to find the appropriate size based on your measurements.
Conclusion
Choosing the right swimwear length is essential for comfort, style, and confidence. By considering your body type, the occasion, and personal preferences, you can find the perfect swimwear that flatters your physique and meets your needs. Mid-thigh swim trunks are highly recommended for their versatility and flattering fit, while longer boardshorts and old man style speedos should generally be avoided. With the right swimwear, you can enjoy your time at the beach or pool to the fullest.
Check out our other guides to mens swimwear style and trends.
FAQs
What swimwear length is best for shorter men? Shorter men should opt for mid or short length swimwear to elongate their legs and avoid looking shorter.
Are board shorts suitable for swimming? While board shorts provide coverage, they can restrict movement and are less suitable for active swimming. Mid or short length swim trunks are better options.
How can I measure the correct swimwear length? Measure your waist, decide on the desired length (e.g., mid-thigh), measure the inseam from the crotch to the desired length, and compare with the brand's size chart.
Why should I avoid old man style speedo swimmers? Old man style speedo swimmers can be too revealing and may not provide the desired level of comfort and coverage. Opt for swimwear with more coverage that is still stylish.
What is the most versatile swimwear length? Mid-thigh swim trunks are the most versatile, offering a balance of coverage, comfort, and style suitable for various activities and body types.
How should I care for my swimwear? Rinse with cold water after each use, use mild detergent, avoid bleach, and air dry in the shade. Store flat in a cool, dry place to maintain shape and color.
